An ischemic stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident, happens when a blockage (clot) in a blood vessel supplying the brain interrupts the vital flow of oxygen and nutrients. This causes tissue damage or tissue death, which in turn causes the symptoms of a stroke.

Current treatment for an ischemic stroke may include IV (intravenous) infusion of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) to dissolve the clot or, in some instances, a procedure to mechanically remove the clot. To be beneficial, tPA must be given within the first few hours after the start of a stroke.

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It is important for medical researchers to continue to develop new treatments for stroke, since stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability.

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For more information on ischemic stroke, visit:

• National Stroke Association http://www.stroke.org

• American Stroke Association  http://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG

• European Stroke Organisation https://eso-stroke.org